As the Spring 2023 anime season draws to a close, it’s time to reflect on the various manga adaptations that are part of its lineup. While there are several exceptional contenders, one particular series has truly stood out as the best manga adaptation of the season. On top of being an extremely popular series, the anime has remained extremely dedicated and faithful to its source material, surpassing expectations and delivering a rendition that not only pleases manga fans but even elevates the original work. Among the other notable choices in this regard, such as Vinland Saga and Heavenly Delusion, Oshi no Ko stands out the most.
Oshi no Ko has been dominating the popularity charts this Spring 2023 anime season, and for good reason. The anime does a fantastic job of starting the series with a movie-length pilot episode, then follows it up with numerous twists and turns. Needless to say, viewers were captivated by the Episode 1. While this is a testament to it being a good show, that doesn’t necessarily equate to being a superb manga adaptation. However, Oshi no Ko also very much succeeds at living up to its source material’s fame.
Oshi no Ko Is Loyal to Its Manga Source Material
The faithfulness of an anime adaptation to its source material holds great significance, as this helps set the foundation for a cohesive and authentic storytelling experience. Omitting little to no content from the original manga demonstrates a deep respect for the creator’s vision and allows fans of the manga to witness their beloved story unfold on the screen with utmost accuracy. When an anime remains faithful to the source material, it ensures that the essence and narrative intricacies of the manga are preserved, thus maintaining the emotional connection that fans have formed with the story and its characters. This is exactly what Oshi no Ko does.
The Oshi no Ko anime tells the story of the Hoshino twins just as the manga does. In terms of narrative, there are almost no differences between the two media. Manga fans, however, may notice a major aspect being cut down from the anime: the opening interview during the first few pages of the series’ initial chapters. The show omits these bits altogether except for the one in which Ai records a message to her twin children. While this does not affect the narrative much, it still alters the experience to a certain degree. However, other than that, the anime stays fiercely loyal to its source material.
The Oshi no Ko Anime Treatment Elevates the Experience
The anime’s portrayal of emotions and character development goes beyond what the manga can achieve on its own. While the latter allows readers to glimpse into the characters’ inner thoughts through dialogue and panels, the anime brings these emotions to life in a more dynamic and immersive manner. The addition of voice acting, subtle facial expressions and nuanced body language further enriches the characters, enabling viewers to connect with them on a deeper level. This depth of emotional portrayal enhances the overall character development, allowing viewers to witness the growth, struggles and conflicts of the characters in a more profound and engaging way.
The anime also masterfully utilizes its colors, using an almost painting-like art style for its most crucial moments. This results in more impactful scenes, evoking stronger emotions from its viewers. A good example of this is Ai’s death. The vibrant colors contrast vastly with Ai’s lifeless body, arousing a heightened sense of dread. Similarly, the first time Aqua shifts to his darker version receives the same treatment. The dark, almost monochromic palette heightens the scene’s sense of grimness. Because of these additions, viewers get to immerse themselves further in Oshi no Ko’s narrative.